Wildlife
Find out which species visit each season
The marshes lie between the mouth of the River Parrett and the Bristol Channel on the Somerset coast. This position attracts migrating birds and has some of the biggest tidal forces in the world, creating an ever changing experience.
As the reserve awakens from winter, wildflowers start to blossom, a variety of spring migrants arrive from their wintering grounds and breeding season begins.
Captivating flora
Marsh marigold, cuckoo flower and cowslip bring splashes of colour and flowering scurvy grass blankets the saltmarsh in white.
Meet the mammals
Boxing hares abound on Otterhampton Marshes and skylarks fill the air with song. Traditional livestock returns to graze on the reserve - helping manage the habitat.
Insects aplenty
As the season warms, webs of caterpillars appear in the hedgerows, followed by a profusion of butterflies.
Marvellous migrants
Hirundines, warblers, godwit and grey plover arrive. Breeding avocets, oystercatcher, lapwing and little ringed plover defend their nests.
